Tips for side cramps

[canadianinlondon]

Hello! I just completed W1R2 and notice I get cramps once I get to my 8th run. What’s the best tip to prevent these?

[creativesquirrel Graduate]

If you are getting cramps, it may be that you’re dehydrated or not hydrated enough! Try to drink more or take a drink with you to see if it helps?

[jessm_01]

I’m adamant that cramp is linked to not drinking enough, drink water throughout the day as well as after your run. Also my friend recommended with cramp to put your hands on your hips and straighten your back but you need to keep moving and don’t stop.

And don’t rush. Slow you pace down as it could be a case of your going to quick for your body.

[blackcatgib Graduate]

I think being hydrated is important and keeping your shoulders back not collapsing forward. I personally prefer to run on a pretty empty stomach or I get pains xx

[UnfitNoMore Graduate]

Dehydration is a huge factor... you shouldn’t be thirsty at any point other than when you first wake up... or maybe after your run.

It could also be a conditioning thing, the diaphragm is a muscle too and will get used to what you are doing to it and get stronger, just like your leg muscles.

Some foods can affect it, and there’s some other causes. Some good reading here.

runnersworld.co.uk/search?q...

[MuChops Graduate]

I found that when I got to the longer runs, the cramps/stitch kicked in. I got it in my right side right up into my shoulder. Can be so painful!

It does get easier. Nowadays I can run 30mins/5k without a stitch!

I have found that running on an empty stomach works much better for me. Less stuff sloshing around in there!

Also, a couple of good deep controlled breaths gets my breathing pattern back into gear, therefore helping my poor diaphragm.

Keep going!!! It gets easier!